<br />Although mental health is just as important as physical health, many people are still hesitant—or ashamed—to seek psychological support when needed.<br />But why? What is the reason for this hesitation? And what makes talking about psychological pain more difficult than talking about a headache or stomach ache?<br /><br />1. The stigma associated with mental health problems<br />Some people mistakenly believe that anyone who seeks psychological help is "weak," "crazy," or "abnormal." These stereotypes create a significant barrier, making people feel ashamed or afraid of society's perception.<br />🧠 Fact: Seeking psychological support is a sign of strength and awareness, not weakness.<br /> 2. The Culture of Secrecy and Ignorance<br />In our societies, we've been raised with phrases like:<br />• "Be patient, everything goes away with time"<br />• "Don't make a big deal out of it"<br />• "It's shameful to talk about such things."<br />These phrases can instill in us the idea that psychological distress is something to be hidden or ignored, not something that can be talked about or treated.<br />3. Fear of Judgment or Rejection<br />Many people are afraid to express their feelings for fear of being misunderstood or criticized.<br />They may fear hearing:<br />• "You're exaggerating"<br />• "You're weak"<br />• "People go through more difficult times."<br />These responses cause a person to isolate themselves instead of seeking help.<br />4. Lack of Awareness of Psychotherapy<br />Some people don't know that there are trained psychologists who can help in scientific and safe ways.<br />Some may think that talking to a friend or being "patient" is enough, even though the condition may be deeper than that. 5. Fear of Admitting Your Condition<br />Some people are afraid to confront themselves, or they prefer to avoid their true feelings.<br />Seeking psychological help may mean, for them, admitting they have a problem...and that admission is difficult.<br />How do we break this barrier?<br />1. Education: We need to spread awareness that mental health is a normal part of life, not something to be ashamed of.<br />2. Community Support: Talking about psychological experiences openly helps others feel safe.<br />3. Changing the Language: Instead of saying, "You're weak," we say, "You're brave for talking about your feelings."<br />4. Encouraging Self-Care: Just as we visit a doctor when we have a cold, it's normal to visit a therapist when we're feeling stressed.<br />Conclusion<br />Seeking psychological help doesn't mean you're weak...it means you're taking care of yourself.<br />We all go through difficult times, and there's nothing wrong with asking others to help us get through them.<br />Silence doesn't heal, but talking can open the door to recovery.<br /><br />Al _ Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq<br />Prepared by: Shahad Nawras Abbas<br />